Novecento Pasta and Grill Specializes in Northern Italian Cuisine

Culver City has its fair share of restaurants. Some last and some go out of business. Novecento Pasta and Grill has certainly stood the test of time for nearly 20 years. Angela the owner believes in the concept of providing fresh cuisine, without the heavy creams.

The ambiance of this quaint restaurant has original paintings carved into the walls, giving the decor a feeling of old Italy. On this occasion, I shared my dining journey with Ron Brewington. The journey was a healthy one.

Next, what would an evening of dining be without some homemade Minestrone Alla Genovese soup? It is prepared with homemade vegetable broth, small pasta and a touch of pesto. This bowl of soup relaxes your stomach.

Mr. Brewington ordered Spaghetti Carbonara, prepared with egg, black pepper, pancetta in an alfredo sauce. I ordered the Ravioli Della Nonna which is homemade ravioli with spinach and ricotta with onions flamed in a vodka sauce with marinara cream sauce.

Ron Brewington, adjunct professor at Santa Monica College and former reporter for Urban Radio Network, who has his own show, Actors Choice, said he enjoyed the northern style of Italian cooking.

I’ve known Ron Brewington for some 30 years. He’s traveled the world and knows the quality of preparing fine cuisine. As with many of us food critics, we tend to eat more than our stomachs can hold, but on this occasion, everything was just the right sized serving. After a glass of wine and some good conversation, there was one last treat.

Desert as usual for me. Ah, the homemade Tiramisu, prepared with lady fingers, espresso and mascarpone cheese, topped with grated chocolate was outstanding. The Pan Cotta, prepared with cream, sugar, brandy, vanilla and caramel also had an excellent taste.

For those who are celiac or vegetarian, Novecento Pasta and Grill has gluten-free fusilli or Organic Whole Wheat Penne.

For catering call (310) 842-3838. They are located at 3837 Main Street, Culver City.

Pete Allman, “The Man on the Scene,” is based in Marina del Rey, California, concentrating on producing feature films, television projects, and commercials. Pete also has an office in Las Vegas, which he visits occasionally.

Pete is also a restaurant critic, broadcast personality and celebrity interviewer. He produces inspirational messages for television and other media.

Of all the investigations he makes, we suspect he likes critiquing restaurants the most, because he can taste the food, savor the atmosphere, interact with people, and photograph all the goodies.